Amending Joint Rule 13 of the Joint Rules of the Senate and House that clarifies that when two or more bills amending the same statute are passed in the same session, the last passed controls
Impact
The resolution has implications for the legislative process in West Virginia. By establishing a clear rule regarding which version of an amended statute takes precedence, HCR29 seeks to reduce confusion during sessions where multiple amendments may arise. This can help ensure that the laws enacted maintain consistency and clarity, which is essential for effective governance and legal interpretation. Legislators and legal experts may find this resolution beneficial in reducing litigation or disputes regarding statutory interpretation following legislative sessions.
Summary
HCR29, or House Concurrent Resolution 29, proposes an amendment to the joint rules of the West Virginia Senate and House of Delegates. The resolution aims to clarify the process regarding the filing of engrossed bills and the precedence of amending bills when two or more are passed in the same legislative session. It stipulates that if multiple bills amend the same statute, the latest passed bill shall control the form of the statute. This clarification is significant to streamline legislative processes and avoid conflicts in the law.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding HCR29 appears to be neutral to positive. Legislators generally recognize the importance of clear procedural rules to govern legislative operations. There might be minimal contention surrounding this resolution as it is more procedural than substantive; however, any changes to legislative rules can lead to discussions about their broader implications for legislative authority and efficiency.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the balance of power within the legislative process and whether the amendment effectively addresses existing issues. While the amendment is designed to improve clarity, some members might express concerns about potential overreach or unintended consequences resulting from a rigid enforcement of this rule. Further discussions may also explore how this resolution interacts with other legislative practices and whether future amendments may be necessary to refine these rules.